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Forensics Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Functional Purpose Conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

A Master's Degree in Criminalistics or Forensic Science may be substituted for a MAXIMUM of ONE year of the required experience. However, a Master's Degree in Criminalistics or Forensic Science ...

Forensic Computer Analyst SR

Richmond, CA · On-site

$133K/yr

Functional Purpose Conducts complex and difficult forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies and forensic techniques in support of ...

Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field; three years paid experience as a Forensic Identification Specialist or the ...

FORENSIC SUPERVISOR

Torrance, CA · On-site

$8.8K - $11K/mo

Graduation from an accredited college with a Bachelor's degree in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field; three years paid experience as a Forensic Identification Specialist or the ...

Criminalist I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $109K/yr

A Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college/university in Criminalistics, Forensic Science, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, Microbiology, Digital Forensics, or Computer Forensics. A Bachelor ...

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Forensics Scientist information

See California salary details

$36K

$78.4K

$135.7K

How much do forensics scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensics scientist in California is $78,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $91,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a forensics scientist do?

A Forensics Scientist analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve criminal cases. Their work involves collecting samples, performing laboratory tests, interpreting results, and providing expert testimony in court. They may work with biological evidence like blood or DNA, chemical substances, or trace materials such as hair and fibers. Forensics Scientists play a critical role in the criminal justice system by providing scientific support to law enforcement agencies.

What are some common challenges forensics scientists face when analyzing evidence in the lab?

Forensics Scientists often encounter challenges such as handling degraded or contaminated samples, interpreting complex data, and ensuring the chain of custody is meticulously maintained. Working under tight deadlines to deliver accurate results for ongoing investigations can add pressure, especially when court dates approach. Collaboration with law enforcement, attorneys, and other specialists is frequent, requiring clear communication and documentation to ensure findings are properly understood and utilized. Attention to detail and adherence to strict protocols are crucial to prevent errors that could impact legal outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensics scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensics Scientist, you need a solid background in biology, chemistry, or forensic science, often supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, analytical instruments (like GC-MS and DNA sequencers), and forensic software is essential, and certifications such as those from the American Board of Criminalistics can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear communication skills are crucial for analyzing evidence and presenting findings in reports or court. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate, reliable analysis that supports criminal investigations and upholds the integrity of the justice system.

What is the difference between Forensics Scientist vs Crime Scene Investigator?

AspectForensics ScientistCrime Scene Investigator
CredentialsBachelor's or master's in forensic science, chemistry, biologyHigh school diploma or associate's; specialized training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesCrime scenes, field investigations
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, private labsPolice departments, law enforcement
Primary FocusAnalyzing evidence, lab testingCollecting evidence at crime scenes

While both roles support criminal investigations, Forensics Scientists focus on laboratory analysis of evidence, whereas Crime Scene Investigators primarily gather evidence at crime scenes. Both careers require specialized training and are essential in the forensic process, but they differ in work environment and daily tasks.

What do I do as a forensic scientist?

A forensic scientist collects, analyzes, and preserves physical evidence from crime scenes to help solve crimes. They use laboratory techniques, such as DNA analysis, fingerprinting, and chemical testing, often working with specialized tools and following strict protocols. The role requires attention to detail, knowledge of scientific methods, and often certification or training in forensic science.

What jobs can I do with forensic science?

Forensics scientists can work in crime laboratories analyzing evidence such as DNA, fingerprints, and ballistics. They may also work in law enforcement agencies, medical examiner offices, or private forensic consulting, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, evidence handling, and certification in forensic disciplines.

What jobs can you get in forensic science?

Forensic scientists can work in roles such as crime scene investigators, forensic analysts, laboratory technicians, and forensic pathologists. These positions involve collecting, analyzing, and presenting evidence, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques, forensic tools, and relevant certifications. Employment can be found in law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, and medical examiner offices.

What kind of jobs do forensic scientists do?

Forensic scientists analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as DNA, fingerprints, and blood samples, to help solve crimes. They often work in laboratories or crime labs, using scientific techniques and tools, and may collaborate with law enforcement agencies. Their work requires attention to detail, knowledge of scientific methods, and often certification in forensic science.

What cities in California are hiring for Forensics Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forensics Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Forensics Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,368 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Forensic Computer Analyst

US Postal Service

Anaheim, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Facility Location

FORENSIC LABORATORY SERVICES

ANAHEIM DIGITAL EVIDENCE UNIT

5335 E LA PALMA AVE

ANAHEIM, CA 92899-9001

Position Information

GRADE: W2 - 02

FLSA DESIGNATION: Exempt

NON-SCHEDULED DAYS: Saturday/Sunday

HOURS: 08:00 A.M. to 04:00 P.M.

BENEFIT INFORMATION: The salary will be based on previous experience, salary history, and current postal pay policies. We offer excellent benefits including health and life insurance, retirement plan, savings/investment plan with employer contribution, flexible spending, flextime scheduling of core work hours, annual and sick leave.

Functional Purpose

Conducts forensic analyses of digital and other multimedia evidence utilizing appropriate scientific methodologies, forensic techniques, and quality assurance practices in support of criminal and administrative investigations.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Conducts forensic examinations of digital and other multimedia evidence through the application of scientific practices for the recognition, collection, analysis, and interpretation of digital evidence for criminal and civil law or regulatory purposes.

2. Examines and analyzes evidence and interprets scientific observations and data to render conclusions, form opinions and produce reports utilizing a full range of electronic search methods and forensic examination techniques.

3. Provides expert witness testimony; produces comprehensive reports and illustrative exhibits for federal, state, and local judicial proceedings at a level sufficient to explain evidence interpretations and conclusions from forensic examinations and scientific data to a lay audience.

4. Serves as a subject matter expert and technical advisor in matters relating to the proper collection, preservation, packaging, and submission of digital and multimedia evidence; participates in crime scene evidence collection activities in

major field investigations; ensures evidence handling requirements are met.

5. Performs ongoing evaluation and validation of laboratory instrumentation and methods, operating protocols, and safety practices under supervision; maintains awareness of safety procedures and identifies possible physical conditions and/or laboratory procedures that may create unsafe conditions.

6. Delivers training in laboratory services, evidence collection, crime scene processing and field examination.

7. Conducts studies and research for improving forensic analyses, scientific methods, and resolving forensic examination problems.

8. Acts as liaison with postal management and federal, state, and local organizations on technical developments, forensic methods, and investigative problems of common interest.

9. Analyzes systems to assist with network intrusion and cybersecurity investigations to determine the cause and extent of a breach.

The United States Postal Service has the following excellent and challenging employment opportunity for highly motivated and innovative individuals. Successful candidates must demonstrate through a combination of education, training, and experience the following requirements:

Requirements

1. Ability to communicate orally and in writing in order to prepare reports of examination results and conclusions, and provide testimony as an expert witness before state, federal or other judicial bodies.

2. Ability to provide training related to laboratory services, evidence collection, and field examination.

3. Knowledge of evidence collection, preservation, packaging and shipment procedures sufficient to serve as a technical advisor in such matters and to ensure evidence handling requirements are met.

4. Knowledge of forensic science techniques, laboratory protocols, research methodologies, quality assurance standards and computer forensic and cyber security examination procedures, instrumentation and software sufficient to properly access, preserve, and extract appropriate evidence from a variety of media and conduct detailed and complex analyses and interpretation of the value of evidentiary items.

5. Ability to render conclusions/opinions and make recommendations based on forensic practices of recognition, collection,

and interpretation of digital and multimedia evidence related to computer forensic examinations.

6. Ability to conduct and document scientific research related to computer forensic examinations.

7. EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION: Bachelor’s degree in computer sciences, forensic science, or a closely related field from a

college or university accredited by a national or regional accreditation organization recognized and sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Education. NOTE: Employees in the Forensic Computer Analyst or Forensic Computer Analyst Sr position prior to June 27, 2015 are exempt from this requirement.

Desirable Qualifications: CERTIFICATION: International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS) Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE) or the International Society of Forensic Computer Examiners (ISFCE) Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy (DCITA) Digital Forensic Examiner (DFE)

**Reimbursement of relocation expenses will NOT be authorized**

Qualified applicants must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening to meet the U.S. Postal Service''s requirement to be drug free.

  • Seniority Level

    Not Applicable

  • Employment Type

    Full-time

  • Job Functions
    • Information Technology
    • Analyst
    • Legal
  • Skills
    • Digital Forensics
    • Cybersecurity
    • Computer Forensics
    • Data Analysis
    • Information Technology
    • Technical Writing
    • Incident Response
    • Expert Witness